Canada’s chief Mountie has informed Alberta’s First Nations leaders that the RCMP will assess the chiefs’ request for a criminal treason inquiry into the province’s premier and ruling party. This response has raised optimism among some chiefs.
Chief Desmond Bull of the Louis Bull Tribe in Maskwacis expressed, “It’s a significant step toward our goal in pursuing this matter.” Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation Chief Sheldon Sunshine also voiced hope, stating, “They will review the information provided to determine if an investigation should be initiated.”
The Assembly of Treaty Chiefs, representing 48 First Nations in Alberta under Treaty 6, Treaty 7, and Treaty 8, unanimously passed a resolution on June 16, urging the RCMP and auditor general to investigate Premier Danielle Smith and other United Conservative Party members for possible treason under Section 46 of the Criminal Code.
Premier Smith has scheduled an October 19 referendum for Albertans to decide on staying in Canada or moving towards a second binding referendum on separation. The Alberta government asserts that the referendum offers a respectful and democratic platform for citizens to discuss grievances with federal policies.
Treason, as defined in the Criminal Code, involves using force to overthrow the government or sharing information with another state that could undermine Canada’s safety or defense.
Following the resolution’s passage, the assembly forwarded it to the RCMP, which responded a month later in a letter obtained by CBC Indigenous this week. In the letter, RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme assured that the matter was under review to determine if a criminal investigation should be pursued.
The letter, addressed to the leaders of Treaty 6, 7, and 8, and the Blackfoot Confederacy, was also copied to provincial and federal attorneys general. Duheme emphasized that any investigative steps would adhere to RCMP policies and be conducted objectively.
While Fraser’s office and the Justice Department declined to comment, the RCMP headquarters in Ottawa affirmed that assessments are conducted impartially based on facts and evidence. The RCMP stated they do not disclose ongoing investigations unless criminal charges are laid.
The treaty chiefs accuse Smith and the UCP of promoting separatism, breaching treaties, risking foreign interference, and failing to consult with First Nations adequately. Despite the premier’s assurance to vote for Alberta to remain part of Canada, the chiefs remain critical of her actions.
Chief Bull welcomed the Mounties’ response and hopes for progress. Meanwhile, First Nations are encouraging their community members to participate in the upcoming referendum.
Smith labeled the treason accusation as disgraceful in June and urged the chiefs to reconsider their stance. However, both chiefs dismissed her remarks.
Chief Sunshine believes that the Mounties are treating the matter seriously, reflecting the concerns surrounding the separation referendum and its potential consequences.
